Wrap Up And Watch Out: Nick And Sean Sagar

Following the successful release of their new movie ‘iLL Manors’ the Forest Gate brothers Nick and Sean Sagar have reached a new high in their acting careers. The two young stars recently sat down to talk to The Wrap Up’s Kristian Galea to discuss working with Plan B, their response to negative critics and what is in store for the Sagar brothers for the remainder of the year…

The Wrap Up:Hey guys! So, are you happy with the reception the ‘iLL Manors’ has received?

Nick Sagar: Yeah man it’s been crazy! When we first started filming it around two years ago, I really didn’t know what to make of it. I knew it was going to be good when things started getting crazy with the press and on the TV - the reviews were great as well.

Sean Sagar: The feedback from the film has been amazing; one major highlight was when I got a tweet saying ‘iLL Manors’ was reported in the Hollywood Times. To make it all the way over there was a dream come true.

TWU: How was it working alongside each other?

Sean Sagar: Working alongside my brother was cool; it was fun because obviously there aren’t a lot of opportunities in your life where you have the chance to work alongside your sibling, so it was a laugh for sure!

Nick Sagar: I think having my brother there brought back the element of comfort. Having him there was easier because we can have banter and fun at the same time.

TWU: Did you feel like there was added pressure on the film as it was undoubtedly going to be prepared to the likes of movies ‘Kidulthood’ and ‘Anuvahood’?

Nick Sagar: I knew from reading the script it was a film that was going to do well, but of course the comparison is going to be in the back of your mind because they are similar in a way. But I knew once people watched it they would see it as its own movie.

Sean Sagar: I didn’t see the comparison - I think it’s completely different. The casting and the storyline is a lot different; of course I can see why people would compare it because it’s a British urban film, but it is a lot darker than the others in my opinion.

TWU: And you both grew up in the Forest Gate area - did that make it easier when filming?

Sean Sagar: It helped because we could make it more realistic, we could have a word with Ben and he was lenient with changing some things, which helped.

Nick Sagar: It helped me portray the character a lot better. Growing up around people in that environment helped me with my acting for sure.

TWU: Now how was it working with Plan B?

Nick Sagar: I enjoyed working with Plan B; he didn’t cut off the friendship whilst we were at work. We still had banter when filming and he knows what he’s doing as a director - he is a smart guy. I used to be his stylist so I did the whole touring experience with him and I love his music, I’m a massive fan.

Sean Sagar: I enjoyed working with Ben, a lot of actors would love to work with him, he pushes you to work harder and there is also leniency with the script which always helps. I was listening to Plan B before he was signed as I was his PA, so I am definitely a fan!

TWU: What would you say to the critics who claim ‘iLL Manors’ is just another film showing the negative depictions of life on a council estate?

Sean Sagar: Many of the main critics are the people who are not aware what is going on. This film shows you what is actually happening; it’s an eye opener and the critics need to watch it the most!

Nick Sagar: A lot of people are saying it was exaggerated, but if you come to Forest Gate and stay for a few months you will see what occurs in the film.

TWU: Do you feel there should be more positive examples of the working classes in UK film though?

Nick Sagar: I think there are positive examples in the film and that is portrayed through the development of individual characters.

TWU: I heard a rumour that you ran into some trouble when filming in Manor Park. Can you explain what happened there?

Sean Sagar: Basically, we were filming and a couple young kids told us we were ‘baiting up’ the area, and then the older group came over and told them to leave and let us film. It just shows that not every kid with a hat and a hood is out to cause trouble.

TWU: What projects are you guys going to be working on for the remainder of the year?

Sean Sagar: I’ve got theatre piece called ‘The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner’ which is similar to ‘The Longest Yard’ so I’m looking forward to that.

Nick Sagar: I will be flying back to America tomorrow because I live in LA, so I’ve got some meetings lined up for some possible pilots… It is exciting times!

TWU: To somebody who hasn’t seen ‘iLL Manors’ - why should they go and watch it?

Sean Sagar: You get to see him running naked [laughs]

Nick Sagar: No, no! This film is just one of those films that everybody has to see; I guarantee you will not be disappointed.